Ten Tips to Help Prevent Driver Distractions

Distracted driving is an epidemic sweeping this nation. Unfortunately, distracted driving has been linked to 3,000 deaths and 387,000 injuries in vehicle crashes in 2011, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Because too many drivers are distracted at the wheel as they drive along Fruitville Road, Bee Ridge Road, U.S. 301 and other roadways around the Sarasota area, drivers need to be reminded that their distractions can cause auto accidents and injuries. While the cell phone is one of the easiest ways drivers become distracted while driving, there are other distractions drivers need to avoid behind the wheel—such as talking to passengers, grooming and eating and drinking.

Avoid eating meals and snacks while driving—especially messy meals—that can lead to spills.

Secure all children and pets before starting your vehicle. Don’t reach in the backseat while you are driving, which can cause you to lose control of your car. Instead, pull off the road to give your children or pets the attention they need.

Refrain from using your cell phone while driving—including hands-free and handheld phones. Never send or read emails or text messages from the driver’s seat.

Enlist a passenger to help you focus on driving.

If anything in your car or another activity commands your attention, pull off the road before focusing your attention on that activity.

Take care of things before your trip so that you are able to give your full attention to driving and not be distracted behind the wheel.

Whether drivers participate in personal grooming, eating, drinking, using navigation systems, or using any electronic device while driving—they are participating in distracted driving and are more vulnerable to crashing.

In an effort to spread awareness and combat distracted driving in Florida, we encourage you to share these tips with your friends and family on Facebook.